Why CSL’s Cultural Connections Are Important

February 3, 2023 | By: Doug Cowan, CSL President & CEO

I’m not sure who said it, or where, but someone remarked, “community is what happens when people behave as if they intentionally belong somewhere.” I think that’s a great way to think about our communities, and to think about the concept of belonging. Perhaps you have enjoyed large amounts of voice and choice over the decisions that have guided your life. That is to say, perhaps you have 100% control over where you live, where you shop, where you bank, where your kids attend school, where you worship, etc., etc. Because of that, you probably feel very empowered about your life, you’ve likely been involved in your community, and have supported its general welfare.

Many people lack voice and choice in their lives. Due to public and private systems, many populations, especially women, religious minorities, and people of color, have been historically excluded from full voice and choice in their decision making. For example, neighborhood redlining, perpetuated by federal government practices and policies, was allowed and systemically excluded African American and Jewish families from many neighborhoods. Many existing neighborhoods were also demolished or significantly harmed by developments like roads and highways that (literally) tore through the heart of a community. While these might seem like examples from decades ago, practices like this have created ripple effects for generations. The practices eroded families’ opportunity for wealth-building through real estate, instilled fear and uncertainty, and directly and indirectly told some families there were not desired in certain communities.

As our communities and neighborhoods have become more diverse in recent decades, old and new traditions or ideas can clash. For longtime residents of a community, it might be difficult to see other longtime residents move on, and wonder how they fit in if new community members don’t resemble themselves. On the other hand, people new to an area might feel anxious or afraid about how they will fit in with an existing community.

CSL works in communities, and we deploy community-based strategies to help individuals and communities reach their brightest future. For communities to thrive, all neighbors must feel as if they have ownership, or as if they intentionally belong somewhere. When families feel that way, they trust the systems around them and work together for a brighter future.

With that mind, CSL is here to build bridges. We want to be a partner in making sure all people feel invested in our community, and that their contributions and efforts are valued and have importance. Sometimes, we have to be very overt about intentional efforts to promote belonging. Again in 2023, CSL will be hosting Cultural Connections, centered out of our BlendWell Community Cafe, as a way to build connections in our community. We will invite people in, share stories, create spaces where everyone is valued and welcome, and, in general, try to be a good neighbor.

Join us this year in making meaningful connections in our community. We’re starting with our celebration and observance of Black History Month in February, and hosting our second “Black Excellence” exhibit. This is meant to highlight great things going on in our community, and serving as a platform for sharing stories and opening up conversations.

CSL is here for people and community, no matter who they are or where they’re from. All are welcome and you belong here.